While chaos and unknowns can certainly bring out the worst in humanity, there are those who surprise even themselves. Caroline Taylor's short story, "Indispensable," explores this notion, and is now available to read in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Caroline's pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
It appears to be getting worse because a large number of people here consider that wearing a face mask is a violation of their personal liberties.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Mick Herron's Joe Country, Ruth Ware's One By One, Lee Child's Gone Tomorrow, and Ian Rankin's A song For Dark Times.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Reruns of baseball and golf helped in the early days, and live sports are helping now.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
It gave me time and solitude to work on revisions to several novels-in-progress and to start a new one, which is set in a time before the pandemic.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Solitude and time are vital to the process. Too many distractions make it difficult to focus; too little time makes the process move too slowly.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes, a colleague with the local chapter of Sisters in Crime who has generously critiqued several of my works-in-progress and given extremely helpful feedback.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
A pantser definitely. This has not changed.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My home office. This hasn't changed during the pandemic.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
q.) "If It Makes You Happy”
2.) "Gimme Shelter”
3.) “Just a Little of that Human Touch" "
4.) “Hey, Jude"
5.) "I'm So Afraid” (live with guitar riff)
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene you've written since the pandemic began?
A scene where the protagonist, who dislikes classical music, discovers that her boyfriend is a percussionist in a symphony orchestra
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Finally getting a little of that human touch from friends and family through hugs and close gatherings.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Use the time to write as much as you can, and don't let the rejections get you down.
ABOUT caroline taylor
Caroline Taylor's short stories have appeared in several online and print magazines. She is the author of five mysteries and one short-story collection
To learn more, follow Caroline and her writing journey at her website.
Thanks for chatting, Caroline!
